Getting married in Greece is a dream for many couples. The country’s stunning islands, romantic atmosphere, and incredible food make it one of the most popular wedding destinations in the world. But before you can say “I do” in Greece, you’ll need a Certificate of No Impediment. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about this important document and how to get it.
What is a Certificate of No Impediment?
A Certificate of No Impediment, also known as a Single Status Certificate or Certificate of Freedom to Marry, is a document issued by your home country’s embassy or consulate in Greece. It confirms that you are free to marry and that there are no legal impediments to your marriage.
Without a Certificate of No Impediment, you won’t be able to get married in Greece. This is because Greek law requires all non-Greek citizens to provide this certificate before they can legally marry in the country.
Who needs a Certificate of No Impediment?
Anyone who is not a Greek citizen and wishes to get married in Greece needs a Certificate of No Impediment. This applies to both religious and civil ceremonies.
If you are a Greek citizen, you won’t need a Certificate of No Impediment to get married in Greece. However, you will need to provide other documents, such as your birth certificate and a confirmation from your local municipality that you are free to marry.
How do I get a Certificate of No Impediment?
To get a Certificate of No Impediment, you’ll need to contact your home country’s embassy or consulate in Greece. The process for obtaining the certificate may vary depending on your country of origin, but you will generally need to provide the following:
- Your passport
- Your birth certificate
- A declaration of your intent to marry
- Proof that you are free to marry
The embassy or consulate will then issue the certificate once they have verified your documents. The process can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, so make sure to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time.
What does the Certificate of No Impediment look like?
The Certificate of No Impediment is a legal document that confirms that you are free to marry. It typically includes your name, date of birth, and passport number, as well as the date and location of your intended marriage. The document may also include an official stamp or seal from your home country’s embassy or consulate in Greece.
Here is an example of what a Certificate of No Impediment may look like:
How long is a Certificate of No Impediment valid for?
A Certificate of No Impediment is generally valid for six months from the date of issue. This means that you will need to get the certificate no more than six months before your wedding date.
If you plan to get married in Greece more than six months after obtaining your Certificate of No Impediment, you may need to get a new one. Check with your home country’s embassy or consulate in Greece for more information.
What other documents do I need to get married in Greece?
In addition to a Certificate of No Impediment, you may need to provide other documents depending on your personal circumstances and the type of marriage ceremony you plan to have. Some common documents you may need to provide include:
- Your birth certificate
- Your divorce certificate (if you have been married before)
- Your spouse’s death certificate (if you are widowed)
- Confirmation that you have completed a premarital counseling course
Make sure to check with your wedding planner or the local municipality where you plan to get married for a complete list of required documents. Requirements may vary depending on your nationality, religion, and other factors.
What if I don’t have a Certificate of No Impediment?
If you don’t have a Certificate of No Impediment, you won’t be able to get married in Greece. It’s as simple as that. Without this document, your marriage will not be legally recognized by the Greek government.
If you are struggling to obtain a Certificate of No Impediment, contact your home country’s embassy or consulate in Greece for assistance. They may be able to help you navigate the process and provide guidance on how to obtain the necessary documents.
The Bottom Line
A Certificate of No Impediment is a crucial document for anyone who wishes to get married in Greece. Without it, you won’t be able to legally marry in the country. Make sure to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to obtain this document, as the process can take several weeks.
Remember that getting married in Greece is an exciting and memorable experience. By taking the time to obtain the necessary documents and plan ahead, you can ensure that your wedding day is everything you dreamed it would be.
